Sports Med
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Resistive exercise training has recently gained popularity in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation programmes. Improvement in muscular strength is important to facilitate return to daily vocational and recreational activities after a cardiac event. Resistive exercise has been shown to be haemodynamically safe for selected individuals with cardiovascular impairment, even at relatively high workloads. ⋯ Nonsustained isometric or combined dynamic/isometric exercises have also been recommended for cardiac patients since many vocations involve lifting/pushing movements or frequent isometric muscle contraction. There appears to be considerable benefit and minimal risk of resistive exercise training for patients with cardiovascular impairment. This mode of exercise may allow patients to perform daily strength tasks safely, more efficiently, and with greater self-confidence.